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If dog owners aren’t responsible, man’s best friend can become his worst enemy. Up to one million people every year require medical attention because of dog attacks. An equal number do not seek treatment or report the bite. On average, 12 people die each year as a result of dog attacks. Children account for 60% of all victims. "Dog attacks are the number one public health problem of children, with more than half of children bitten by age 12," said Dr. Dan Simpson, spokesperson for the Rhode Island Veterinary Medical Association. In addition to the tragedy caused by canine attacks, owners can be subject to civil and criminal liability for their pet’s behavior. Responsible pet ownership and safe behavior around dogs can curb this problem. Most victims are bitten by dogs owned by their own family and friends, but there are steps dog owners can take to reduce the likelihood of their dogs biting people. Your veterinarian is your best source for information about your pet’s behavior. Reduce the chance of your dog biting someone by following these tips: *Socialize your dog so it feels at ease around people and other animals. *Don’t put your dog in situations where it may feel threatened or teased. *Obey leash laws. Don’t let your dog roam free. *Train your dog to obey basic commands such as "stay," "no," and "come." *Keep your dog healthy with proper vaccinations. Control parasites. *Spay or neuter your dog as early as possible. If you are approached by a dog: *Don’t run away. *Stay until the dog leaves, or back away slowly until the dog is out of sight. Avoid eye contact. *Remain calm. If you fall to the ground or are knocked down, curl into a ball, placing your hands over your head and neck. Protect your face. More information on preventing dog bites is available free through the Rhode Island Veterinary Medical Association. A new brochure, "Don’t Worry, They Won’t Bite," provides tips for dog owners to encourage proper pet behavior, hints to avoid being bitten by a dog, and steps to take when a dog bites someone. Also, there is an activity book which teaches children how to act responsibly and safely around dogs through coloring, dot-to-dot, seek-and-find and other activities. To receive a copy of the brochure and/or activity book, call (401) 521-0101.
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